What is a Special Constable?
Being a Special Constable is all about providing a highly visible
and uniformed police presence in the community. Special Constables
are volunteers drawn from all walks of life to assist the regular
police service in meeting the policing needs of the local
community. Special Constables may be involved in targeted
initiatives or in responding to major incidents.
What are the duties of a Special Constable?
The ‘Specials’, as they are known, are endowed with the full powers
of the regular police and act under the supervision of Police
Constables. On a day-to-day basis, Special Constables will perform
the following duties:
- patrolling communities;
- crime reduction and prevention initiatives;
- helping safeguard public safety and security at local
events;
- assisting security at a crime scene; and
- traffic patrols.
Full training is given on many aspects of the Special
Constables' roles before being put on duty. This occurs over four
weekends and is supplemented by evening sessions. Training includes
powers of arrest, preparing for evidence in court and learning
techniques for dealing with awkward situations and people.
Who becomes a Special Constable?
Special Constables are ordinary members of the community who
want to play a role in keep their area a safe place to live.
Special Constables must be between 18 and 50 years of age and of
good character. They must give a minimum of 8 hours per month to
their duties plus a further 2.5 hours towards training. They must
be able to work in a team and keep a cool head under pressure and
in difficult situations.
Would you like to know more?
If you would like to know more or are interested in becoming a
Special Constable, please call the Specials hotline on: 01473
613640.
Alternatively,
call
in at your local police station and ask for
details.